Metso and CSIRO initiate a new phase of collaboration

A new initiative between Metso and the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) in Australia strengthens the ability of both organisations to further develop and provide advanced technological services and solutions to industry. As part of the collaboration, Metso Process Technology and Innovation (PTI) relocated its global head office to the Queensland Centre for Advanced Technologies (QCAT) facilities in Brisbane, Australia.

“This is another initiative to provide most advanced services and solutions to our customers. This collaboration represents an opportunity for the industry to access cost-effective R&D, specialised consulting, technical services and products. Mining companies, CSIRO and Metso can work together now to fast-track technology transfer, product development, commercialisation and support to enhance operational performance,” says João Ney Colagrossi, President, Services business line, Mining and Construction, Metso.

L-R, Dr Ian Dove (CSIRO), Dr Walter Valery (Metso), Jonathan Law (CSIRO) and João Ney Colagrossi (Metso) opening the door of PTI’s new office.

QCAT is a collaborative research precinct linking CSIRO, the Queensland state government, Cooperative Research Centres and other R&D organisations. It is one of the largest integrated research and development centres for the resources and associated advanced technology industries, and is a focal point that encourages on-going interaction between researchers and industry. Metso’s move to QCAT strategically places it in the heart of technological innovation for the resource industry and provides access to state-of-the-art laboratory and pilot-plant facilities. For CSIRO, this close collaboration facilitates further links to the industry and provides another possible commercialisation conduit for a number of research and development outcomes.

The co-location of commercial enterprises and research providers at the QCAT Technology Transfer Centre promotes an ideal environment for the exchange of ideas, information and technology. Rio Tinto Alcan, BHP Billiton and Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) are examples of other occupants of the centre, and are contributing to this multifaceted environment. Notably, Metso is the only equipment manufacturer and technology supplier represented within the facility.  

“Metso’s people at QCAT are involved in process innovation and consulting in mining. They will share QCAT’s infrastructure and collaborate with CSIRO on process improvement and innovation in minerals and energy. There are many opportunities for future joint CSIRO-Metso projects,” says Dr Mike McWilliams, Executive Manager of QCAT.

In particular, working with CSIRO will help Metso take several aspects of their R&D project investigating eco-efficient mining and processing technologies and services (aimed at reducing water, energy consumption and associated carbon emissions) to the next level. “We are already working with a number of R&D institutions globally. We share many common interests with CSIRO, and with numerous opportunities for forthcoming collaborations, our recent move to QCAT is a smart fit, which will benefit CSIRO, Metso and the industry,” states Dr Walter Valery, Senior Vice President, Process Technology and Innovation (PTI), Mining and Construction, Metso.